Benin Bronzes and Restitution Issues

The video discusses the controversy surrounding the Benin Bronzes, which were looted from Nigeria by British troops and displayed in museums worldwide. The Smithsonian and other institutions are now repatriating these artifacts as part of a new ethical policy. The process involves transferring ownership back to Nigeria, allowing for collaborative exhibitions. The video highlights the importance of ethical considerations in museum practices and the impact of repatriation on future art acquisition and exhibition strategies.

What event led to the looting of the Benin Bronzes?

• A French invasion in 1900

• A British Expedition in 1897

• A German raid in 1885

• An American expedition in 1910

Which museum in Washington displayed some of the Benin Bronzes?

• The National Museum of American History

• The National Museum of Natural History

• The National Museum of African Art

• The National Gallery of Art

What is the Smithsonian's new policy regarding the return of artifacts?

• Artifact Restoration Policy

• Cultural Repatriation Policy

• Historical Preservation Policy

• Ethical Returns Policy

How did the Smithsonian acquire the Benin Bronzes?

• Through colonial expeditions

• Through direct purchase from Nigeria

• Through gifts and donations

• Through international auctions

How many Benin Bronzes were physically returned to Nigeria by the Smithsonian?

• 22 out of 29

• 15 out of 20

• 30 out of 35

• 10 out of 15

What is the significance of the transfer of ownership in the context of restitution?

• It changes who has the power to decide the fate of the works

• It ensures the artifacts are never displayed again

• It guarantees financial compensation

• It prevents future loans of the artifacts

How does the director of the Smithsonian's National Museum of African Art feel about returning the artifacts?

• Regretful

• Happy

• Indifferent

• Bittersweet

What does the director believe about having stolen or unethically procured items in the museum?

• It attracts more visitors

• It legitimizes the museum

• It is necessary for historical preservation

• It is spiritually and ethically wrong

What has influenced the recent actions towards restitution at the Smithsonian?

• Technological advancements

• Public protests

• Increased funding

• New leadership and growing consciousness

What is the Smithsonian's focus for the future regarding African art?

• Increasing ticket prices

• Creating a space for belonging and resilience

• Acquiring more artifacts

• Building new museums